Euro 2012: Matchday Four (Group D)

One of the more highly-anticipated match-ups of the group stage kicks off today's Euro 2012 action as France takes on England in Group D's opener (Noon, ESPN).

The French come in riding high after a strong run of form over the past year. They boast a strong attack and steady defense, and will be favored to knock off an injury-hit England side that will also be without suspended star Wayne Rooney, who is due to miss the match after receiving a red card late in Euro qualifying.

The English are dealing with an injury-depleted defense that could be in serious trouble trying to slow down an attack featuring, Franck Ribery, Karim Benzema and Samir Nasri. John Terry and Joleon Lescott will be paired up in central defense today, while youngster Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain gets the start in midfield for Roy Hodgson's side.

In the day's second match, tournament co-hosts Ukraine take on favored Sweden (2:45pm, ESPN) in a match-up that should offer plenty of intrigue. The Swedes are favored, but will be faced with trying to beat a home team.

If you will be watching today's matches, please feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and some play-by-play in the comments section below.

Lalas won’t let Ballack finish a sentence. Poor Ballack is wounded every time Lalas steps on his lines. Not a good combination. Bring back Rossi!!! (jk) Ballack just wants to extend some of his insight (which has been good imo when he gets it out). Lalas just wants to fight.

Can anyone think of any tactics or strategy for breaking down a packed-in team like England was? Other than playing Barcelona style ticki-tacka one-two passes with a superstar like Messi, what else is there? Crossing the ball and having an Ibra or Carroll trying to head it in?

It’s such a popular tactic now, parking the bus, and I think the coach and team that innovates a new way to attack it will be called a genius.